What is Flag Rugby?
Flag rugby is the introductory game for rugby in America. Kids, parents, teachers, fans, referees and coaches learn and compete in a simplified version of rugby played with flag belts. The rules and programs of flag rugby tie together child development, healthy activity, fair play, fun and safety. Rookie Rugby is the official start of the player pathway for USA Rugby and is used in PE classrooms, after-school programs, community programs and rugby clubs throughout the USA.
How is it played?
All types of rugby are free flowing and feature continuous play. Players work as a team to move the ball across their opponent’s goal line to score a try. In place of tackling, Rookie Rugby is played with the flag system. All players wears belts containing 2 flag (one on each side of their hip). When a flag is pulled the defender must yell “FLAG!” and return it to the offensive player before both players may return to play. This is intended to simulate a ruck in a regular rugby game.
Scoring
– Try Awarded: 5 points given to scoring team
– There is no conversion kick in rookie rugby (K-6 Grade)
– Scoring team will kick off to non scoring team